Two months ago, FT posted on YouTube the FT Simple Stick build video. Josh said, "We are providing free downloadable plans..." Where are the plans??
Love what you guys do, but someone seems to have dropped the ball here.
I don't think anyone "dropped the ball". I suggest that FT are trying to move away from the free plans model. That is absolutely their right. For years they gave us amazing free plans and I am very grateful for that.
I do suggest however that there are some downsides from a business point of view to not giving away plans. Not everyone can afford SBKs, free plans keep these people in the hobby and spread the word to those who may well be able to buy SBK's. Maybe some leave the hobby altogether, who might otherwise have been able to buy SBKs when money becomes available at a later stage. Also it may be argued that every free plan is a lost sale, but in truth many of these people would not (for various reasons) have bought the SBK's anyway. Lastly SBK's are not available or very limited to many around the world and the plans are the only way to keep these people engaged
Some software companies have realised that by allowing free access to software for non-professional use this results in a brand loyalty which can result in future sales. At the end of the day this is flitetest's choice and whatever they choose to do, we have no right to complain.
Thanks to Dan and flitetest for all the plans to date and whatever business model they choose, I wish them every success with it.